KCPT’s ‘The Local Show,’ ‘Ruckus’ to take summer hiatus for redevelopment

KCPT’s ‘The Local Show,’ ‘Ruckus’ to take summer hiatus for redevelopment

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Kansas City Public Television will take the summer to give its local programs a refresh in both content and art direction. “The Local Show” and “Ruckus,” which air on Thursday nights at 7:00 and 7:30 p.m., respectively, will conclude their season May 22 and will return in August with new sets, content direction and new faces.

“KCPT has undergone a series of exciting changes in the past year. We purchased a radio station, KTBG 90.9 FM, and received a grant to launch a new digital newsroom, The Hale Center for Journalism,” Angee Simmons, Vice President of T.V. Production, said. “We’re now embarking on the next phase of creating a bigger and better public media company by taking the time to turn our attention to our television programs with a greater focus on engagement.”

“Ruckus” will continue its format as a place for opinions from both sides of an issue to be discussed, and the current panelists will be invited back to participate. There will also be efforts to bring in new voices and opinions as part of a guest seat at the table. Plans include finding ways to engage the community in the conversation through social media and outreach.

“We are so proud of the role KCPT plays as a community storyteller. It’s not often that we are afforded the time to reflect on our productions and make conscious efforts to make them better for all audiences— on-air, online and in the community,” Simmons said.

The 10-week hiatus will allow for KCPT’s producers and production teams to turn their attentions to redeveloping the station’s current local T.V. properties, as well as begin producing and editing a new arts show slated to launch in September 2014.

About “Ruckus”

“Ruckus” is a round table discussion about the big-ticket issues that face the Kansas City community. Moderator Mike Shanin leads the ensemble of conservatives and liberals as they debate the week’s topics.

About “The Local Show”

“The Local Show” highlights artists and entrepreneurs, leaders and overachievers from all walks of life— and, in the process, help Kansas Citians discover substantially more about this place we call home.

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